Dance Photography Session Guide
Booked my dance session, now what?
First, I am so happy to have you here!! Yay for booking a dance session. Most dance sessions are done in groups. It’s nice for many reasons. I am a creative, dancers are creative, we all feed off of each other for ideas. Group shoots are also an encouraging environment where kids support each other. It’s fun while also capturing progress, growth and memories!
Outfits…
Always plan for 2, but bring 3!
Most group sessions are up to 2 hours long. If we have the time for a 3rd outfit, we’ll do a third!
Outfits can be anything. Have fun with it or keep it timeless. You can bring dancewear, regular clothes, or a mix.
If you really like themed dance shoots, even though the shoots are done in a group, YOU can still make your shoot themed. Whatever makes it fun for you and your dancer is fine by me!
What’s good to have/ bring…
Baby wipes in case your dancer gets dirty.
A changing cape. These can be found on amazon.
Slip on shoes.
A blanket for your dancer to stretch on.
Coming prepared…
Stretch before your session or as soon as you arrive.
Practice some poses at home, or come with some poses in mind. I always ask if there is something your dancer is working on/ wants a photo of. I also do pose on my own, but having a starting point and seeing what your dancer is capable of and enjoys, helps the creative process.
Hair and makeup…
This is another thing that is totally up to you!
I personally think having your hair down, and no makeup or a very glowy natural makeup photographs really well. But again, this session is for your dancer and I love it when people explore their creativity. If your dancer feels confident with a red lip, do a red lip! If you want to dress up your dancer with diamonds in their hair, by all means do it and it’ll be so fun!
Just remember…
This is a chance to capture your dancer as they are in this moment. I don’t expect perfection. In fact, capturing different skills even if they aren’t perfect, is a chance to see growth later on.
Bring a positive attitude and support. A lot of kids do better when their parents step back a little at shoots. It’s nice when you’re there to help if they need it, but discouraging comments can ruin the vibe and affect the results of the images. If someone isn’t happy/ got their feelings hurt, it definitely shows up in photos.
